sydney mint tours

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Sydney Mint

The Sydney Mint is the city’s oldest public building, best known as part of the former Rum Hospital.

The building was constructed between 1811 and 1816 and constituted the southern wing of the then-Rum Hospital (today known as Sydney Hospital).

Sydney Mint Museum, Cafe, Shop & Coins, Macquarie Street, NSW

The Rum Hospital catered for convict patients between 1816 and 1848. Interestingly, it earned its name because it was financed with thousands of litres of rum. Today, The Mint is one of Sydney’s most famous buildings. Today, it houses the head office of the Sydney Living Museum, has venue spaces, and has a cafe and restaurant on location.

The Mint is also home to the Caroline Simpson Library & Research Collection, a perfect place for history buffs and bookworms to spend a relaxed afternoon. The library is open from 10am to 4pm. Need to address hunger pains? Head out to the swanky No. 10 Bistro & Store. With a contemporary bistro-style menu prepared using freshly sourced local produce, No. 10 is a must-visit for anyone willing to treat themselves. Reservations can be made by calling the restaurant during business hours.

Head downstairs below the restaurant to access an espresso bar, a gift store, and fresh blooms. There is no better place to get your caffeine fix before shopping for the perfect souvenir. The Mint’s convenient location in Sydney’s CBD makes it ideal for venue hire. Its timeless architectural design, coupled with integrated AV, makes it a befitting location.

Entry to the Sydney Mint building and site is free. Guided tours are available for groups of 10 or more. The reception area, the Coining Industry building, and the ground floor of the Macquarie Street building are accessible for wheelchair users.

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Michael Jones

Michael created and runs the Sydney Point website, as well as the Holiday Point travel brand that incorporates a network of 16 location based travel information and attraction websites around Australia, Asia, and around the world.

With 25+ years of online experience and a passion for travel (having visited Sydney many times and seeing a lot of the city in the process), Michael not only researches and writes content for the website, he also tinkers behind the scenes with the website functionality & design.

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Top ways to experience The Mint and nearby attractions

• Martin Place • 2 min walk
• St James • 2 min walk

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

THE MINT: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

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The Mint consists of two structures – the Mint offices and the coining factory – located in the most important civic precinct of Sydney. The Mint offices building on Macquarie Street has been a major element in the streetscape of Sydney for almost 200 years: the coining factory, hidden from view, is less well known. Both these buildings are associated with major events in the history of New South Wales and are of exceptional heritage significance.

The Mint offices were constructed between 1811 and 1816 as the south wing of the General Hospital and are one of the oldest surviving buildings in central Sydney. It is also the earliest example of classical architectural detailing in Australia and contains much evidence of colonial building techniques from the convict period.

The coining factory represents a major event in the social, economic and political history of New South Wales – the discovery of gold. Built in 1854–1855 in response to the gold rush, the buildings were constructed using imported prefabricated components and are rich in evidence of minting processes and machinery.

Explore the rooms and hallways where colonial surgeons and apothecaries once lived and examine the archaeological remains of the Mint in the courtyard and rear buildings, reminders of the busy industrial complex that operated here for many decades.

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Top ways to experience The Mint and nearby attractions

• Martin Place • 2 min walk
• St James • 2 min walk

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

The Mint - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Top ways to experience The Mint and nearby attractions

• Martin Place • 2 min walk
• St James • 2 min walk

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

THE MINT: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

Top ways to experience The Mint and nearby attractions

• Martin Place • 2 min walk
• St James • 2 min walk

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

The Mint - All You MUST Know Before You Go (2024)

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The Royal Australian Mint, Deakin, is temporarily closed to visitors while we continue our refurbishments. See you again in Spring 2024. Find out more .

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Temporarily closed to the public

The Mint Gallery and Coin Shop located at Deakin, Canberra are temporarily closed to visitors until Spring 2024

From 29 January 2024, the Royal Australian Mint in Deakin, will be closed as we freshen up for our 60th birthday.  We look forward to welcoming you back in Spring 2024 with new galleries, a new shop and improved amenities. 

But never fear, we will be relocating our Coin Shop and special Exhibition to Canberra Museum & Gallery (CMAG), right in the heart of Canberra, with easy (paid) parking in the Canberra Theatre complex.

New Exhibition at Canberra Museum & Gallery (CMAG), right in the heart of Canberra (Civic) Change: Stories from your Pocket

A new special exhibition never seen before will be setting up at CMAG. 

From technical innovation to celebration and commemoration, join us for a special temporary exhibition to explore how the coins in your pocket tell the stories of Australia.

CMAG Exhibition Hours:

Opening hours: Monday to Friday  10am to 4pm Weekends & Public Holidays 12pm to 4pm

School Bookings by appointment only between 8.30am to 5pm weekdays

(Easy paid parking next door in the Canberra Theatre complex)  Directions to CMAG 

Canberra Museum & Gallery (CMAG) London Cct, Canberra City

*Public Tours unavailable.

School group bookings

Contact us if you are interested in booking a private tour of the CMAG Exhibition for a school.

Coin Shop at Canberra Museum & Gallery, Civic, Canberra

Opening hours: Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5pm Weekends & Public Holidays 12pm to 4pm

For Coin Shop enquiries please call 1300 652 020

Conditions of Entry and Security Requirements

Your entry to the Mint’s premises is subject to these conditions and security requirements .

Commonwealth of Australia 2023

(ABN: 45 852 104 259)

Top ways to experience The Mint and nearby attractions

• Martin Place • 2 min walk
• St James • 2 min walk

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

THE MINT: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

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Design & style, travel & leisure, search concrete playground, fridays at the mint.

Enjoy snacks, rum cocktails and drop-in tours inside the historic Mint building.

There's a lot of history packed onto Macquarie Street in the Sydney CBD. At the south end of the road is a stretch of especially historic buildings, including Hyde Park Barracks, NSW Parliament House and The Mint , which is over 200 years old. Despite its age, The Mint can still throw a party.

Each Friday in March, its Bullion Store will transform into a bar after hours. Expect tasty snacks (think wagyu beef burgers, parmesan shoestring fries and sriracha popcorn chicken) and Brix Distillers -made rum cocktails alongside drop-in tours exploring the history of the building.

Here's a quick intro lesson: The Mint started its life as Sydney's first general hospital, built in 1816 for the cost of 45,000 gallons of rum (hence the rum cocktails). Then in 1855, to manage the NSW gold rush, it became the first branch of the Royal Mint bank outside of London.

That's just a sample of the fun facts you can learn. You'll get the full story on one of the drop-in tours — which run at 5.30, 6.30 and 7.30 pm. The doors to the event are open from 5pm to 8pm, giving you plenty of time to snack, sip and study your way through the halls of The Mint.

Fridays at The Mint runs every Friday throughout March, from 5pm to 8pm. Entry is free. For more information, visit the website .

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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sydney

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Sydney the oldest, biggest, and most beautiful of all Australian cities, lies amid a seductive intermingling of land and sea. Glide along the glittering harbor on a ferry, see the white sails of the Opera House gleaming in the sunshine, admire the graceful arch of the Harbour Bridge, and you'll see why this is one of the world's top cities.

It's hard to imagine this vibrant state capital of New South Wales was once a convict colony. In 1788, it was at Sydney Cove where Captain Arthur Phillip, commander of the First Fleet, established the first British colony in Australia. Today, you can explore Sydney's fabled history in the narrow, cobbled laneways and historic buildings of the Rocks, and learn about the Gadigal Aboriginal people, the traditional custodians of this land, on guided tours and at the city's excellent museums.

Sydney still fizzes with the adventurous spirit of its settlers. Climb the harbor bridge, surf the green-barrel breaks at Sydney's golden beaches, or fly over the city on a scenic tour. And the adventures don't end in the city. Wildlife-rich wilderness areas surround the city providing appealing day trip possibilities .

Discover all the best places to visit in this famous harbor city with our list of the top things to do in Sydney, Australia.

See also: Where to Stay in Sydney

1. See the Sydney Opera House

2. the sydney harbour bridge, 3. stroll around the rocks, 4. hop aboard a harbor cruise at circular quay, 5. spend a day at darling harbour, 6. smell the roses at the royal botanic garden sydney, 7. shop 'til you drop at the queen victoria building, 8. zoom up the sydney tower eye, 9. bask on sydney's beaches, 10. bike or walk around barangaroo reserve, 11. go wild at taronga zoo, 12. wander along george street, 13. enjoy a picnic in hyde park, 14. admire the masterpieces at the art gallery of new south wales, 15. visit st. mary's cathedral, 16. explore macquarie street & the state library of new south wales, 17. enjoy yum cha in chinatown, 18. find vintage treasures and colorful street art in newtown, 19. check out kings cross, where to stay in sydney for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to sydney, sydney, australia - climate chart, more exciting adventures near sydney.

One of the world's great icons, the Sydney Opera House is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the star attraction on the glittering harbor. This graceful building, shaped like shells or billowing sails, perches on a finger of land surrounded by water.

You have several options for visiting the Sydney Opera House . Snap a photo while gliding by on a harbor cruise, relax at one of the restaurants, stroll around its exterior, or take an organized tour of this magnificent structure. Inside, you'll find theaters, studios, exhibition rooms, a concert hall, and a cinema.

Book a Sydney Opera House Guided Walking Tour to learn about the history and get a behind-the-scenes look at this famous building. This is a flexible ticket that allows you to join any one of the tours throughout the day, departing every half hour from 9am to 5pm.

Avid photographers should head to Mrs Macquarie's Chair for one of the best photo opportunities.

The Sydney Opera House just emerged from an almost $300-million "Decade of Renewal." Among the many improvements is a renovated Concert Hall — try and catch a show here when you visit.

Author's Tip: If you happen to be in Sydney in late May or early June during the Sydney Vivid festival , stop by at night to see the white sails lit up with colorful digital art.

Location: Bennelong Point, Sydney, New South Wales

Nicknamed the "Coathanger," the Sydney Harbour Bridge is another Sydney icon. Supported by massive double piers at each end, it was built in 1932 and remains the world's largest steel arch bridge .

You can drive over it, cruise below it, chug over it on a train, or photograph it from afar. But one of the best ways to appreciate this marvel of engineering, and soak up the spectacular views of Sydney Harbour, is on a climb to its 135-meter-high summit.

Scaling the bridge is one of Australia's top outdoor adventures, and you can choose from a range of different tours. Sydney BridgeClimb takes groups on an approximately 3.5-hour climb to the top of the outer arch. Tours run throughout the day, beginning with a dawn climb and ending with a night climb. You can also choose from different types of climbs, including an Indigenous storytelling experience and a climb right across the arch to the other side — the bridge connects the harbor's north and south shores.

Guided ascents of the bridge with BridgeClimbSydney include a pre-climb prep talk, safety gear, and a photo on the summit. Along the way, you'll learn all kinds of entertaining stories about the history of the bridge. One of its most famous workers was Paul Hogan, aka Crocodile Dundee, before he became famous.

To learn more about the fascinating history of the bridge's construction, visit the museum in the southeastern pier.

Address: 5 Cumberland Street, Sydney, New South Wales

Want to soak up a bit of Sydney history? Take a stroll around The Rocks . Located on a tongue of land protruding into Sydney Harbour, the Rocks historic area was once home to the Gadigal Aboriginal people. Later, it became the country's first site of European settlement.

The Rocks was named for the rocky coast on the west side of Sydney Cove where the convicts pitched their tents. Today, more than 100 heritage sites and buildings jostle along the narrow streets, including Sydney's oldest surviving house, Cadmans Cottage , built in 1816.

The first stop should be a visit to The Rocks Discovery Museum . Here, you can learn about the area's fascinating transformation from traditional Aboriginal lands to convict slum to tourist hot spot. You can also join a 30-minute free guided tour at 1pm and 1:30pm daily.

Afterward, wander around the narrow, cobbled streets. Pick up some souvenirs at the gift shops, buy handcrafted goodies at the market stalls (Friday nights, Saturdays, and Sundays), and admire Aboriginal and contemporary art in the galleries. You'll also find plenty of atmospheric little restaurants and cafés here.

Guided tours run the gamut, from Aboriginal heritage walks to photographic excursions, and if you're looking for unusual things to do in Sydney, you can book a nighttime ghost tour.

Address: 66 Harrington Street, Level 6, The Rocks, Sydney, New South Wales

Sydney is famous for its sparkling waterfront setting, and one of the most popular things to do in Sydney Harbour is a sightseeing cruise. Most harbor cruises depart from Circular Quay in Sydney Cove, which is also home to the city's main ferry terminal.

Short on time? Book the two-hour Sydney Harbour Coffee Cruise , which takes you past all the harbor highlights and to some of the most scenic places in Sydney, including the Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and Fort Denison. Learn fascinating facts about the key sights along the way, and keep your camera ready — you'll have plenty of photo ops.

Prefer to spot some wildlife during your tour? During the annual winter whale migration, the Sydney Whale-Watching Cruise takes passengers out past Sydney Heads to view these magnificent creatures.

If you don't have time for a harbor cruise, you can still see some of the top sites on a ferry ride around the harbor. Ferries depart from Circular Quay to prime spots, such as Manly , Watsons Bay , and Taronga Park Zoo .

Author's Tip: From Circular Quay, you can easily walk to other top Sydney tourist attractions . Head south along the waterfront promenade to the Sydney Opera House and the Royal Botanic Gardens, and a short walk to the north leads to the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Rocks historic area. To the west, the free Museum of Contemporary Art, housed in an Art Deco building, displays cutting-edge, and often controversial, exhibitions.

Darling Harbour has something for everyone. Packed with tourist attractions, this waterfront precinct on the western side of Sydney's CBD is a hub for tourists and locals alike. You'll find everything here, from shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues to museums, a zoo, an aquarium, and an IMAX theater.

Families will love Madame Tussaud's; the WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo; and the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, which contains the world's largest collection of Australian marine creatures. The SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium Entrance Ticket is a great way to get ahead of the crowds.

Nautical-minded history buffs can board a replica of Captain Cook's ship, the HMB Endeavour , at the Australian National Maritime Museum. And while you're wandering around, keep an eye out for colorful artwork along the Darling Harbour Street Art Trail .

Younger children will love the carousel, playgrounds, and water park. An IMAX and 9D theater, harbor jet boat rides, simulated flights, and racing car adventures round out the exciting attractions.

Seeking a tranquil patch of green? Slip into the Chinese Garden of Friendship , and sip tea among the willows and koi ponds.

As well as offering a one-stop shop of Sydney attractions for families, Darling Harbour also hosts an exciting line-up of events, from art exhibitions and film festivals to music concerts at the Aware Super Theatre .

Need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city? Chill out at The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney in Farm Cove. A visit to this tranquil oasis is one of the many relaxing things to do in the city for free — especially if you're in need of a nature fix — and it's only a short stroll from the Sydney Opera House.

Established in 1816, the gardens are Australia's oldest botanic garden . They encompass 30 hectares of themed gardens with towering trees, palm groves, orchids, ferns, succulents, tropical gardens, rainforest plants, herbs, and Oriental gardens.

Garden lovers will be in heaven. The Palace Rose Garden blushes with around 1,800 roses. The Glasshouse Latitude 23 and Fernery brims with tropical foliage, begonias, and orchids; and the Cadi Jam Ora - First Encounters Garden tells the story of the Gadigal people, the land's traditional custodians, and explores the relationship between people and plants.

Aboriginal cultural tours and guided walks are offered, as well as events such as bush tucker morning teas and picnics.

Wondering what's nearby? Surrounding the gardens is the Domain , a popular event venue, with open green space and sports areas. And while you're visiting the gardens, you can enjoy views of Government House , the official residence of the governor of New South Wales.

Address: Mrs Macquarie's Road, Sydney, New South Wales

If shopping is high on your agenda, head to the Romanesque-style Queen Victoria Building ("QVB"). Even if you're not planning to buy anything, it's worth a visit just to admire this beautifully restored building and its colorful stained-glass windows and mosaic floors.

A high central dome surrounded by 20 smaller domes crowns this elegant building, which was originally built as a market hall between 1893 and 1898. After decades of neglect and even plans for demolition, this grand sandstone building was restored to its original state in the early 1980s.

Today, more than 200 high-end shops line its light-filled galleries. Australian stores include R.M. Williams, Lorna Jane, and Haigh's chocolates, as well as many Aussie designer boutiques, and you'll also find homeware stores, gift stores, and galleries.

Feeling peckish? The Tea Room QVB hosts a popular High Tea under crystal chandeliers.

You can access the QVB from Town Hall Station through underground arcades.

If you want to learn more about the history of this magnificent heritage building, sign up for a 45-minute QVB History Tour .

Address: 455 George Street, Sydney, New South Wales

Soaring above the city skyline, the 309-meter-high Sydney Tower Eye is the city's tallest building and one of its great landmarks (other than the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, of course). This golden spire-topped turret rises from the busy Centrepoint shopping mall.

Zooming up the Sydney Tower Eye is one of the popular things to do in the Sydney CBD for tourists. Express lifts whisk visitors to the observation deck at the top, or to SKYWALK, an alfresco glass-floor viewing platform, the perfect spot for sightseeing. While you're up here, you can enjoy panoramic views of Sydney and its surrounding suburbs, or enjoy a bite to eat at one of the revolving restaurants or the café.

Also on offer is a 4D cinema experience, which provides an overview of the city's major icons.

Address: 100 Market Street, Sydney, New South Wales

Sydney is famous for its beautiful beaches . Tucked around the harbor are many sheltered coves with calm water and sugary sands.

You don't need to venture far from the CBD to find an inviting stretch of sand and sea. Iconic Bondi Beach is less than a 15-minute drive from the city, with great surf, a buzzing café scene, and a cosmopolitan vibe. For fantastic ocean views, take the coastal walk along the cliffs from Bondi to Coogee Beach .

If you're traveling by public transport, Cronulla is the only beach accessible by train from the city, and Manly Beach is only a 30-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay . Here, you can swim in the surf or the netted ocean pool, take a surf lesson, or stroll along the beachfront promenade and stop in at the excellent shops and restaurants.

Farther north of the city, surfers will find some fantastic breaks at Collaroy , Dee Why , and Narrabeen . Swimming is enjoyable at most Sydney beaches — especially during the summer months — but you should always stay between the red and yellow flags.

Barangaroo Reserve is an excellent example of a successful urban renewal project. Named after the influential female Indigenous leader at the time of European colonization, the area was transformed from an unsightly container terminal and opened to the public in 2015 with a commitment to sustainability and enhancing community wellbeing.

With more than 75,000 native trees and shrubs, as well as walking and cycling tracks, this 22-hectare waterfront precinct is a lovely spot for a stroll or bike along the harbor. You'll also find shops, restaurants, and event and exhibition space here.

One of the most popular things to do at Barangaroo is the Wulugul Walk . This scenic waterfront promenade skirts the six-hectare re-created Sydney Harbour headland at the reserve's northern end and extends for two kilometers between Walsh Bay and Darling Harbour .

Along the way, you can admire an evocative series of public art installations. Keep an eye out for shell wall , a 22-meter-tall vertical panel on the side of a building at the reserve's southern gateway, created by two of Australia's leading Indigenous artists. You can learn about the area's rich Indigenous heritage on an Aboriginal cultural tour .

In 2023, a new recreation space opened in Barangaroo as part of the planned Harbour Park open space on Sydney's foreshore. Bring the kids here to bounce around in the play area and challenge each other to a game of handball. Parents can work out in the outdoor gym or relax in the shady sitting areas.

Barangaroo is only a four-minute walk from Wynyard station, and you can also catch a ferry direct to the new Barangaroo Wharf.

At Taronga Zoo , you can see all your favorite animals, as well as spectacular city views. Nestled on a point along the north side of the harbor, the zoo inhabits prime Sydney real estate in the posh suburb of Mosman, and it's one of the top things to do with kids in Sydney .

Here, you can enjoy close-up encounters with iconic Aussie wildlife and other animals from around the world. Highlights include the African Savannah exhibit, Tiger Trek, chimpanzees, and gorillas.

Daily keeper presentations and animal shows add to all the fun. Feed the giraffes, meet the Asian elephants, get up close to a cuddly koala, or make friends with a meerkat. Another bonus: Entertaining shows are included with your entry ticket, including a Seals for the Wild presentation and a Free Flight Birds show.

The zoo's lively events calendar includes "Roar and Snore" overnight zoo stays and a summer concert series. You can purchase a Sydney Taronga Zoo Entry Ticket in advance, which includes a ride on the Sky Safari gondola.

Want to stay longer? Book a room at the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga . This unique eco-retreat on the zoo grounds gives you after-hours viewings of some of the animals, as well as all kinds of other perks.

From the city, buses to the zoo depart from Wynyard. Better still, hop aboard a ferry at Circular Quay .

Address: Bradleys Head Road, Mosman, New South Wales

Bustling George Street, in the heart of the city, is Australia's oldest street. Once a nameless track trodden by convicts fetching supplies of water, it's now one of the city's major traffic arteries. It's worth exploring to feel the pulse of this vibrant city and browse the shops.

You'll see a mix of architectural styles here. Gleaming high-rise office blocks brush shoulders with historic buildings. A highlight is the elegant Romanesque-style Queen Victoria Building replete with graceful domes, stained-glass windows, and high-end stores.

Nearby, the Sydney Town Hall (1869) is a major city landmark sporting a medley of architectural styles (it's been compared to a richly decorated wedding cake). Another architectural standout is the neo-Gothic St. Andrew's Cathedral , completed and consecrated in 1868.

Need a shopping fix? You'll find plenty of high-end shops in the Queen Victoria Building , and designer boutiques and jewelry stores line the Victorian-style Strand Arcade . If you're looking for more accessible name brands, Pitt Street Mall , one block east of George Street, is one of the city's major shopping precincts.

Named after Hyde Park in London, Sydney's Hyde Park is Australia's oldest park . It's a peaceful sanctuary in the heart of the city and a lovely spot for a picnic. Sprawling lawns, shady picnic spots, flowers, fountains, and fig trees provide a welcome escape, and the park offers prime people-watching - especially at lunch when city workers come here to kick off their shoes.

Several monuments and memorials punctuate this popular 16-hectare green space. The park's bronze Archibald Fountain (1932) commemorates Australia's alliance with France during WWI, and the Art Deco Anzac War Memorial (1934), in the southern half of the park, honors its victims.

At the north end of Hyde Park, in Queens Square, are three fine Georgian buildings, masterpieces of the convict architect Sir Francis Greenway: Hyde Park Barracks , St. James' Church , and the Supreme Court . Built by convict labor in 1817-19, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hyde Park Barracks was restored to its original condition in 1975-84 and now houses a museum on the history of Sydney, portraying the lives of the first involuntary "settlers."

On the east side of Hyde Park is the Australian Museum , with the largest natural history collection in the country.

Address: Elizabeth Street, Sydney, New South Wales

Official site: http://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/explore/facilities/parks/major-parks/hyde-park

Surrounded by beautiful parklands, the Art Gallery of New South Wales is one of the country's most distinguished art museums. The building dates from 1885 and houses spacious, light-filled galleries and Grand Courts, with collections ranging from works by European masters and Asian artists to evocative contemporary art from around the world. The gallery also houses one of the largest collections of Aboriginal art in Australia .

Currently, the Art Gallery of New South Wales is undergoing a transformation and expansion -The Sydney Modern Project - which includes the addition of a brand new sustainable building, a public art garden, and a grand forecourt, as well as restoration of the historic building. Once completed in late 2022, the museum will occupy double the exhibition space, flowing between indoor and outdoor spaces, and will continue to be a major destination for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art.

After admiring all the masterpieces, you can relax at the café or restaurant, or browse the gallery gift shop.

Address: Art Gallery Road, The Domain, Sydney, New South Wales

Official site: http://www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/

Facing Hyde Park, St. Mary's Cathedral (1868-82) is a symbol of the spiritual beginnings of the Catholic Church in Australia. This striking landmark, in neo-Gothic style, is the seat of the Archbishop of Sydney.

Topped by twin spires, the building was modeled on Lincoln Cathedral, and its imposing façade reflects the design of Notre-Dame in Paris. Inside the cathedral, intricate stained-glass windows cast beautiful patterns of light. Christmas is an especially evocative time to visit, when the cathedral is adorned with lights and decorations.

Location: St. Mary's Road and College Street, Sydney, New South Wales

Official site: http://www.stmaryscathedral.org.au/

Stretching from Hyde Park in the south to the Sydney Opera House in the north, Macquarie Street was once Sydney's most fashionable street. Governor Macquarie commissioned the construction of many of the colony's grand public buildings along this strand, some designed by convict architect Francis Greenway. Impressive sandstone residences soon followed, with verandas to capture the beautiful views of the surrounding parklands and Sydney Harbour.

In 1816, the completion of Sydney Hospital on Macquarie Street encouraged doctors to set up offices nearby. However, the hospital's capacity exceeded demand, and legislative offices moved into some of its buildings. Today, Parliament House occupies the hospital's northern wing and is open to the public when the New South Wales Parliament is in session.

A top attraction on Macquarie Street is the State Library of New South Wales , the oldest library in Australia. Among its jewels are the journals of Captain Cook and Joseph Banks , as well as Captain Bligh's log from the Bounty. The permanent and temporary exhibitions here are always worth visiting, and you can relax with a snack in the café or pick up a quirky Australian souvenir at the gift shop.

You'll also find The Mint on Macquarie Street in the southern wing of the former hospital. It's now home to a library, central courtyard, and café.

Official site: http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/

Inhale the fragrance of sizzling Szechuan spices, shop for Chinese specialty items, or feast on authentic Asian cuisine at Sydney's Chinatown. Framed by lion gates at each end, this small district lies in the pedestrian zone of Dixon Street, between Darling Harbour and Central Station.

Yum cha is a popular pastime here, and the Friday night market is a feast for the senses, with everything from dim sum and Vietnamese pho to teppanyaki. On the first full moon after January 21, the streets of Chinatown come alive during the celebration of the Chinese New Year.

Near Chinatown, Paddy's Markets at Haymarket is a Sydney institution from Wednesdays through Sundays, with hundreds of stalls selling fresh produce, bargain fashions, and souvenirs.

Address: Dixon Street, Haymarket, New South Wales

Fashionistas, take note: fun and funky Newtown is a hot spot for vintage treasures and thrift store shopping. You'll find this hipster-packed inner-city suburb about a 10-minute drive from the city center.

One-of-a-kind pieces cram the racks in the best boutiques here. Favorites include The Wilde Merchant selling everything from retro tees to workwear and Japanese pieces, while Storeroom Vintage displays rare music tees and other hand-picked gems from the 70s to the 2000s. Stitch Up Sydney specializes in collectible band tees and designer sneakers. Real King Vintage also sells vintage T-shirts, as well as sportswear and preloved goodies from top brands like Tommy Hilfiger Nike, Carharrt, and Polo Ralph Lauren. Is Western wear and Americana more your jam? Head to Route 66 .

After hitting all the hottest vintage shops, fuel up with a snack at one of the area's eclectic restaurants and cafés — you'll find everything here from Turkish cuisine and Thai food to Italian trattorias. Then polish it off with an award-winning gelato from Cow & the Moon — their Mandorla Affogato flavor once won the "best in the world" award.

Newtown is also famous for its vibrant street art . Start with the "I have a dream" mural on King Street, and keep your eyes peeled. You'll find other murals popping from the walls on Lennox Street, Mary Street, and Bedford Street to name a few.

Author's Tip: About a five-minute drive from Newtown, the Markets at Glebe is one of the best places to find deals on designer vintage treasures — from pre-loved designer clothing, shoes, and accessories to hand-crafted jewelry and cutting-edge creations from new local designers. The markets are open every Saturday from 10am to 4pm.

About two kilometers east of the CBD, Kings Cross is Sydney's multi-faceted red light district and the city's nightlife hub . If you're interested in experiencing an edgier part of the city, this is a great place to visit. You can also catch a play at one of the theaters.

Called "The Cross" by locals, it has an intriguing, Bohemian past. The area was an artistic quarter around 1920, until it evolved into a popular haunt for beatniks during the 1950s and later, hippies. During the Vietnam War, the area started its slow slide to depravity when large numbers of American troops came here on "rest and recreation" leave. You can find out more about the area's spicy history on a guided walking tour.

Despite the area's less-than-savory reputation at night, it wears a different face during the day. Backpackers from the many hostels in the area huddle at hip cafés . Boutique hotels shelter fashionistas, and foodies come here to dine at the trendy restaurants.

To find Kings Cross, look for the large Coca-Cola billboard, at the intersection of William Street and Darlinghurst Road. It's a famous Sydney landmark and is often referred to as the "Gateway to The Cross."

For first-time visitors to Sydney, a fantastic base for sightseeing is The Rocks , the city's historic district. Spectacular harbor views, heritage-listed buildings, museums, shops, galleries, and cute courtyard cafés make this a great place to stay. From here, many of Sydney's top tourist attractions are within easy walking distance, including the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, and the Royal Botanic Gardens. Also a short stroll from here is Circular Quay, the departure point for harbor cruises and ferries. Here are some highly rated hotels in the area :

Luxury Hotels :

• Deluxe hotel options include the harborfront Park Hyatt , one of the country's top hotels; The Langham, Sydney ; and the Four Seasons ; all with stunning harbor views.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Near Wynyard Station, the Little National Hotel Sydney offers affordable, compact rooms with comfy beds.
• For families and travelers seeking apartment-style accommodation, Sky Suites Sydney is a top choice, with studios and one- and two-bedroom suites.
• The 90-room boutique Ovolo 1888 Sydney Harbour occupies a heritage-listed old wool store and factory. Bold, contemporary interior design contrasts with the historic building.

Budget Hotels :

• For cost-conscious travelers, The Australian Heritage Hotel and The Mercantile Hotel offer affordable rooms in a superb location.

In contrast to the regular and spacious layout of the younger Australian cities, Sydney is a complicated maze of one-way streets and narrow lanes. Public transport or tours are highly recommended for first-time visitors.

• See the Sights: For the best introduction to the sights of Sydney, book a Sydney and Bondi Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour , which stops near the major sights in the city center, around the harbor, and Bondi Beach. Tickets are valid for 24 or 48 hours, and you can hop on and off the bus as often as you please.
• Save Money : Planning to visit several Sydney tourist attractions? Save money on admission by purchasing a Sydney Attractions Pass . You can choose from a combination of two, three, or four attractions, such as WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, the Sydney Tower Eye, and more.
• Take a Day Trip : Just a short drive outside the city is some spectacular mountain scenery. If you have time for just one day trip, take the Blue Mountains Nature and Wildlife Day Tour from Sydney . This small group tour provides pickup and drop-off from your hotel, lunch, entrance fee to the Featherdale Wildlife Park, and a guide.

One of the most beautiful cities in Australia, Sydney is surrounded by plenty of enticing day trip destinations. The World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains has some of the best hikes in Australia ; the beautiful Hunter Valley is a hot spot for foodies; and Canberra , the nation's capital, is only a three-hour drive away.

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Private Essential Sydney Tour

Explore the Iconic Streets and Attractions of Sydney with our Exclusive Australian Luxury Tour

Tour Information

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the iconic city of Sydney! This perfect Sydney, Australia vacation comes with a personal tour with a guide familiar with all its secrets, and take in some spectacular sights such as The Sydney Opera House. Enjoy lunch at the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia while admiring the beautiful harbour views. Finish off your day by taking it easy on Bondi Beach – one of Sydney’s favourite spots among locals and visitors alike. An Australian vacation like no other!

• Private tour of Sydney guided by a friendly and knowledgeable guide
• Explore the birthplace of Sydney in the historic Rocks precinct
• Capture stunning views at Macquarie’s Chair situated on the waters edge
• Dine with a view at Cruising Yacht Club of Australia for lunch
• Relax and soak up the atmosphere of Bondi Beach, one of Sydney’s most famous beaches
• Private guide with extensive knowledge 
• Air-conditioned vehicles 
• lunch at the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia 
• Hotel pick up and drop off 
• Comprehensive commentary

Departure: Approx 10.30am

The rocks precinct, sydney botanical gardens, macquarie street, mrs macquarie’s chair, woolloomooloo, kings cross & rushcutters bay, cruising yacht club of australia (for lunch), darling point & double bay, rose bay & vaucluse, watsons bay, bondi beach, oxford street paddington, returning to your hotel approx 3.30pm, what areas of sydney will i be visiting on the tour.

On this private tour of Sydney, you will visit the historic Rocks precinct, Mrs Macquarie’s Chair situated on the waterfront, Cruising Yacht Club of Australia for lunch, and Bondi Beach – one of Sydney’s most famous beaches. You will also be passing by Macquarie Street, Hyde Park Barracks, St Mary’s Cathedral, Woolloomooloo, Kings Cross and Rushcutters Bay as well as Double Bay and Rose Bay. In addition to all these destinations you will get to explore Oxford Street in Paddington with its boutique shopping precinct and charming Georgian-Victorian architecture.

Does the tour include lunch?

Yes, the tour includes lunch with local beer, wine, and other beverages at the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia.

Is there a guide with the tour?

Yes, the tour includes a highly qualified and knowledgeable private guide. This guide will collect you from your hotel at 10:30am before taking you on a day of exploration and discovery around Sydney’s must-see attractions. Enjoy an enjoyable day with professional commentary in luxury air-conditioned vehicles. The tour returns to your hotel at 3:30pm.

Are there any stops along the way for pictures and sightseeing?

Yes, the tour makes several stops along the way for pictures and sightseeing. You will get to explore the historic Rocks precinct, Macquarie’s Chair situated on the waterfront, Bondi Beach – one of Sydney’s most famous beaches, and Paddington with its boutique shopping precinct and charming Georgian-Victorian architecture. Enjoy a relaxing lunch with local beer, wine at Cruising Yacht Club of Australia before heading back to your hotel.

How long does this private tour last?

This private tour lasts approximately 5 hours, departing at 10:30am and returning to your hotel at 3:30pm. Enjoy a comfortable and informative journey exploring the best attractions of Sydney with your friendly guide. Don’t forget to bring along your camera for some fantastic photo opportunities!

Testimonials

The Best Walking Tours in Sydney

Sydney is the most popular and largest city in Australia. If you visit the country, you’re going to visit here. Home to five million inhabitants (about 20% of the entire population), it has a ton of things to see and do , from the iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge to its stunning beaches and plentiful museums (many of which are free).

As the country’s biggest city and most popular destination for tourists, there is a lot to do here. Beyond the typical sites, museums, and activities, there are also a lot of incredible walking tours that give you a sense of the people and culture of the city.

I love walking tours for this reason. Led by a local, they give you information you wouldn’t find by just wandering around on your own. You get someone who can answer your questions and share their insider tips.

There are a lot of walking tours in Sydney to choose from. To help you avoid some of the less than great ones, here’s my list of the best walking tours in Sydney:

BEST OVERALL TOUR

Bonza Bike Tours

Bonza Bike Tours takes pedalers on a four-hour, two-wheeled adventure, hitting all the sites — the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Observatory Hill, the Rocks, Barangaroo Park, and much more — all while being regaled with quirky historical tales and facts about the city. Halfway through the ride, the group stops for a rest and a quick beer.

Tours start at 149 AUD.

Best Free Tour

Locl Tour Sydney

Meet your guide at Archibald Fountain in Hyde Park at 10:30am and get ready for an info-packed 2.5 hours. Locl Tour Sydney offers an excellent primer on Sydney, which means if you’re a first-time visitor, consider doing this walking tour at the beginning of your stay. The tour delves into everything from Aboriginal history to the Opera House to the country’s infamous sharks and snakes. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!

  While those may be the best free and paid tours in town, there’s a lot more on offer. Here are a few more of the best walking tours in Sydney to help you have fun during your stay:  

1. Sydney True Crime Tour

If you’re looking for a tour that explores the grittier side of the city beyond the standard tourist sites, this is the one for you. Over 90 minutes, you’ll wander historic areas around The Rocks neighborhood and learn about nefarious criminals and infamous crimes (the country was colonized by criminals, after all). The tour takes you down narrow alleys and into secret nooks as you discover Sydney’s underbelly. It’s pretty cool.

Tours start at 34 AUD.

Book here!  

2. Fit City

If you’d like a more active tour, this is a good one. This company runs guided walking, hiking, and running tours in the area. One of their unique offerings is the 4.5-hour Manly Hiking Tour. During the 11-kilometer (7-mile) trek, you’ll get some stunning views and learn a lot about the surroundings from the local guide. The hike culminates in Manly (one of my favorite neighborhoods in the city ) where you can stroll the area’s charming streets and replenish yourself with well-earned food and drink.

Tours start at 97 AUD.

3. Sydney Architecture Walks

You don’t have to love buildings and their various styles to have a great time on a tour with Sydney Architecture Walks. Led by actual architects, these tours are jargon-free adventures that give visitors a deeper knowledge beyond why certain buildings are pretty. The 2-3-hour, small-group tour focuses on the patterns and forces that have shaped the appearance of contemporary Sydney, making it appropriate for anyone looking to learn more about the city’s history and design.

Tours start at 49 AUD.

4. Local Sauce Tours

Local Sauce Tours offers a variety of unique small group tours that are capped at 12 participants to ensure an intimate and fun experience. One of their most popular tours is the “Drink & Discover Secret Bar Crawl,” which showcases a mix of hidden and top-rated bars. Each night of the week highlights a different neighborhood (tours are offered on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays), so if you wanted to drink your way around a few different areas with new friends, you could – just by taking this tour on different nights of the week.

If you’re more about the food than drink, try the “Local Sydney – Aussie Food, Culture & Coffee” tour, where you’ll sample a variety of Aussie treats (like vegemite toast and a flat white coffee) while wandering through historic neighborhoods. In addition to special interest tours, they also offer a 3-hour, Ultimate Sydney Walking Tour for first-time visitors. It covers all the major attractions while also teaching about Aboriginal culture and history.

Tours start at 60 AUD.

5. Lantern Ghost Tours

For a spooky tour around town, check out Lantern Ghost Tours , Australia’s largest ghost tour company. Their tours run on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights and take curious travelers around ghoulish sites where hair-raising crimes occurred and spirits haunt residents still. The tours last 90 minutes.

Tours start at 36 AUD.

6. Journey Walks

This tour company offers a few themed walks, but the one you shouldn’t miss is the 2.5-hour stroll around convict-era Sydney, on which guides lead a maximum of 14 guests around the city’s notorious colonial beginnings (mostly focusing on the Rocks area), when Sydney was a playground for British convicts. You’ll hear a lot of fascinating tales and stories that may inspire you to explore more on your own. The tour is a must for history buffs!

7. The Rocks Aboriginal Dreaming Tour

Developed by Aboriginal Elder, Margret Campbell, and led by Aboriginal guides, this special walking tour simultaneously leads participants through ancient Aboriginal DreamTime and modern-day Sydney. On the 90-minute tour, you’ll learn about Aboriginal history, culture, and language while stopping at culturally important sites in the Rocks.

A big focus of this tour is the cultural intersection with the natural environment, something we often don’t think of when visiting big cities. Definitely check out this tour for the important perspectives and insights shared by the Aboriginal guides, Australia’s original inhabitants.

Tours start at 69 AUD.

8. Aboriginal Harbour Heritage Tour

Offered by the Botanic Gardens of Sydney, on this tour, you get to wander the harbor area with an Aboriginal guide who shares the history and culture of the area from the Aboriginal perspective. The one-hour walk focuses not only on the past but also on the regional flora. You’ll learn what specific flowers, plants, herbs, and trees mean to the Gadigal people and how they traditionally used them for various purposes. I highly recommend it. It adds a lot of perspective to the city.

Tours start at 30 AUD.

Sydney has a ton of walking tours available that can help you save money, see the sights, and introduce you to everything this incredible metropolis has to offer. Whether it’s a food-related stroll or an Aboriginal-led outing or a history-laden bicycle tour, you’ll leave Sydney with a much deeper appreciation for the place than when you arrived.

Book Your Trip to Sydney: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. Two of my favorite places to stay are:

For more suggested hostels, here’s a list of my favorite hostels in Sydney . For more on where to stay, click here’s a list of the best neighborhoods in Sydney .

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Hi, I’m Nomadic Matt, the New York Times best-selling author of How to Travel the World on $50 a Day and Ten Years a Nomad, as well as the founder of this website! And I’m here to help you save money on your next trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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THE MINT: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

Top 5 easy day trips from Sydney

Oct 7, 2023 • 7 min read

Hiking to Wentworth Falls in the Blue Mountains National Park © Olga Kashubin / Getty Images

Sure, Sydney has enough going on to make even the most hardened traveler consider selling up and sticking down roots here, but step out a little further and you’ll soon discover that this entire region of Australia brims with breathtaking natural beauty, Aboriginal and colonial history and plenty of domestic critters to spot. 

The Blue Mountains draw walkers for their epic bush-clad vistas and hidden valleys with prehistoric forests. You'll find the Hawkesbury River region and Sydney's south Royal National Park both offer spectacular walking with water views. The Central Coast stretches north with uncrowded surf beaches and inlets rich with sea birds. And the Hunter Valley is blessed with leafy country roads dotted with producers of fine wine, chocolates and cheese. 

These are the best day trips from Sydney.

Hike rainforests and waterfalls in the Blue Mountains

Travel time: 1.5-2 hours by car, 2 hours by train

The cool haze that gives the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains their name comes from a fine mist of oil exuded by huge eucalyptuses. There are eight connected conservation areas here rising to 1100m (3609ft), with lush rainforests and epic waterfalls that can be explored on well-marked hikes (of varying lengths). 

You’ll also have the opportunity to gain insights into the mountains' importance to their traditional Aboriginal custodians by taking a guided tour. These are the homelands of six Aboriginal groups: the Darug, Gundungurra, Wiradjuri, Wanaruah, Darkinjung and Tharawal. You’ll see one of the best showcases of Aboriginal rock art in the region at Red Hand Caves near Glenbook. 

Trees form a dense canopy across a landscape of deep, and sometimes inaccessible, valleys and chiseled sandstone outcrops. In fact, some valleys are so hard to reach, a species of tree once considered extinct, the Wollemi pine, was rediscovered in a valley here in 1994. 

The three most popular walking areas for day trippers are the Jamison Valley, south of Katoomba , the Grose Valley, north of Blackheath, and the Wentworth Falls area. Some top choices include the Giant Stairway and the Grand Canyon Walk. Do take note: these ravines can be surprisingly cool throughout the year, so bring a warm layer.

How to get to the Blue Mountains from Sydney: Hourly trains to Katoomba take two hours from Sydney's Central Station. You can then walk from here, or catch the Blue Mountains Explorer Bus to tour the region, with options ranging from one-hour tours to all-day hop-on-hop-off tickets to see it all.

Get hiking, canoeing and photographing Royal National Park 

Travel time: 1 hour by car, two hours via train and ferry

To Sydney's south, the  Royal National Park  protects 15,091 hectares (3,7290 acres) over a 32km (20 miles) stretch of beautiful coast. It is also one of the world's oldest national parks – declared in 1879. As well as secluded beaches, sea cliffs, heathlands and forest, the park protects a cornucopia of Australian animals including wallabies, lyrebirds and raucous flocks of yellow-tailed black cockatoos. 

Audley, at the junction of Kangaroo Creek and the Hacking River, is home to the main visitors center and is the perfect place to pick up park maps, have a picnic or hire a canoe to get out on the river. There are a number of walks to tackle in the park including the fabulous 26km (16 miles) Coast Track, but unless you’re Usain Bolt, you will only have time to complete one of the shorter marked trails during a day trip.

The park is also home to the Insta-famous Figure Eight Pools , a series of figure of eight-shaped tidal pools near Burning Palms Beach. Visible only at low tide, it’s a two-hour hike to the rock shelf so try to arrive in the morning and only visit when it’s safe to do so – freak waves can (and do!) wipe out visitors. Check the National Park website for details.

How to get to the Royal National Park from Sydney: The easiest way to visit is by car ($12 per vehicle per day). For public transport take the train to Cronulla (45-60 minutes) Sydney's Central Station, where Cronulla Ferries travel hourly to Bundeena (45 mins). 

See Aboriginal rock art and birdlife in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

Travel time: 1 hour by car, 2 hours by bus

The majestic Hawkesbury River flows to the ocean past honeycomb-colored cliffs, historic townships and into quiet bays and inlets. It passes through a series of national parks, including the spectacular Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park . Declared in 1894, its name comes from its original inhabitants, the Guringai people. Remnants of pre-colonial Aboriginal life are visible today thanks to the preservation of more than 800 sites, including rock paintings, middens and cave art.

For information about Ku-ring-gai and walks in the area stop by the NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service information center at Bobbin Head  (accessible by car). There’s also a marina, picnic areas, a cafe and a boardwalk leading through mangroves here.

Further inland, t​he riverside hamlet of Wisemans Ferry (yes that’s the town’s name) spills over a bow of the Hawkesbury River. It’s another perfect spot to access the Hawkesbury, and its natural environs rich with bird life like kookaburras and sea eagles.

The surrounding area retains remnants of the convict-built Great North Road, originally constructed to link Sydney with the Hunter Valley and now part of UNESCO's Australian Convict Sites World Heritage listing . As well as walks, consider booking a boat tour or hire a kayak and get out on the river. Even better if you have the time, do as Sydney locals love to do and stay longer on a houseboat.

How to get to Hawkesbury River from Sydney:  Take the train from Central Station to Hawkesbury River Station and explore the river by boat. Buses also run from central Sydney’s Wynyard to Mona Vale and then on to ​​Church Point where you can get a ferry across to the park. The journey there takes approximately 1-2 hours.

Discover secret beaches and forests along the Central Coast

Travel time: a full-day return driving tour

The Central Coast runs between Sydney and Newcastle and includes some gorgeous beaches, swathes of national park and a series of inlets and saltwater lagoons. Closer to Sydney, the southern end of the Central Coast near Ettalong can be accessed by ferry from Sydney's Palm Beach. On the north side of the mouth of the Hawkesbury are the enticing Killcare Beach, Pearl Beach and Bouddi National Park . 

Beyond this, you’ll need a car and there are many epic spots to stop off on a day trip north to Newcastle, including the pelican-packed town of The Entrance and deep, placid Lake Macquarie. Popular beaches to take a dip along the way include Avoca or Terrigal. 

The more industrial Newcastle is blessed with an eclectic mix of historic architecture, as well as a much-loved beach and ocean baths. South of Newcastle Beach, below King Edward Park, is Australia’s oldest ocean bath, the convict-carved Bogey Hole . It’s an atmospheric place to splash about in when the surf’s crashing over its edge. The most popular surfing breaks are at Bar Beach and Merewether Beach, two ends of the same beach a bit further south. Merewether has huge ocean baths of its own.

How to get to the Central Coast from Sydney: If driving, take the M1 Pacific Motorway north towards Newcastle from Sydney where the Gosford exit will take you along the coast. 

Go food and wine touring around the Hunter Valley 

Travel time:   a full-day return drive, or coach tour

Picturesque roads criss-cross this verdant valley, but a country drive isn’t the main reason to visit. Over two hours' drive from Sydney, the Hunter Valley is famous as Australia’s oldest wine region, with vines dating from the 1860s. It’s the perfect spot for a day trip from Sydney for fine wine, gourmet restaurants, boutique beer, chocolate, cheese, olives, you name it. It’s also a beautiful spot to go hot-air ballooning while in Australia.  

You’ll probably recognize some of Australia’s biggest names in new world wines, especially for semillon, shiraz and chardonnay. The valley’s 150-plus wineries range from small-scale, family-run affairs to massive commercial operations so let your nose guide you. Most offer cellar door tastings either free or for a small fee. You can get a copy of the free touring map from the Hunter Valley visitor center and use it to hunt out the tucked-away small producers.

If no one’s volunteering to stay sober, there are plenty of guided coach tours available, ranging from mini buses that just do basic hop-on-hop-off transport between wineries to full-on gourmet extravaganzas, some on bicycle, horseback or chauffeured in a classic car. 

How to get to the Hunter Valley from Sydney: If driving, take the M1 Pacific Motorway north to Newcastle from Sydney where the Hunter Expressway will lead you into the valley.

This article was first published Jul 25, 2021 and updated Oct 7, 2023.

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